Precise laser cutting of 3D parts on a rotary table

SmartComp is a tool to address part variation and misalignments due to part placement on a rotary table or on a fixture attached to a rotary table. Prima Power Laserdyne’s SmartComp corrects the programmed position and angle of the laser beam in real-time when the centre of the part is not aligned with the centre of the rotary table, or the part is tilted from the centre of rotation of a rotary table.

SmartComp aims to be used to compensate for both linear offsets and axis precession on parts processed on a rotary table, even if the parts are flat, round, conical or contain curved surfaces.

The tool makes it easy to calculate and implement the corrections by measuring the actual location of a small number of reference points on the part and comparing the actual position of these points within the laser processing program. During processing, SmartComp automatically adjusts the coordinate system in real time so that the programmed positions line up with the actual part position.

SmartComp is suited for laser welding because it compensates for real world variations enabling the laser head to follow the intended weld path on the part accurately. With real time corrections from SmartComp, welds are more consistent requiring no operator intervention. It is also effective at drilling cooling holes in aerospace engine components.

The new SmartComp technique controls machine motion and does not affect operation of the laser itself. SmartComp, along with the complete suite of LASERDYNE SmartTechniques, is available on the LASERDYNE 795, 606D, and 430 multi-axis laser systems. It is also available as a free software upgrade to current users of LASERDYNE systems with S94P software.

SmartComp, along with the other SmartTechniques, aim to lead to laser processes with greater capability, higher throughput, higher quality and greater flexibility.